Hoi An is a gentle combination of Holland and China, with its bridges over the wide river that meanders through the town giving it a European feel, whilst the streets themselves are full of old wooden Chinese houses, some of which are centuries old.

Tourism is the main business here, along with a never ending series of tailors who can knock up a top quality suit or an exotic dress in 24 hours. The sewing factories open into the streets alongside the restaurants and bars. It’s a gentle place but I was expecting a little more. However the town does grow on you, and with a beautiful sandy beach just 5 kms up the road time drifted by gently. The beach hawkers sell the usual tat, but also useful stuff like suncream, and the fridge magnets we collect.

Unusually for me I went for a hair cut, which then went to a shave, then hairwash, then facial, then massage - without input from me . 90 minutes later I was sat down as the family had gathered to discuss the bill. Gulp! …$9 I ask you. What a bargain!

Hoi An is 30 minutes drive from Danang and within striking distance of My Son temple ruins and the ancient city of Hue. War history tours are run to the old DMZ area. Between Hoi An and Danang is China Beach. Currently a building site as such hotel giants as Ritz, Carlton and Raffles move in, it is a stunning stretch of sand made famous as the last piece of R & R for the American Gi's in the war. For many their last ever break.